Valve Discontinues Steam Machine Companion Cube After Dbrand’s Unauthorized Modding Claims

Valve has permanently discontinued support for the Steam Machine Companion Cube hardware accessory after determining that Dbrand, the company behind the device, failed to obtain proper authorization for modifications to Valve’s proprietary hardware, according to verified sources.

The decision marks the end of an era for the Companion Cube, a modular hardware device designed to enhance Steam Machines and other Valve hardware. While Dbrand had previously released a software-based version of the Companion Cube, the discontinuation applies specifically to the hardware variant, which was launched in 2017 as part of Valve’s SteamOS ecosystem.

Valve’s move comes after a prolonged dispute over intellectual property rights and hardware modifications. The company had previously issued warnings to Dbrand regarding unauthorized alterations to its hardware, but the final decision to discontinue support appears to stem from Dbrand’s inability—or refusal—to comply with Valve’s licensing requirements.

Why Was the Steam Machine Companion Cube Discontinued?

Valve’s decision hinges on three critical factors:

• Unauthorized hardware modifications: Dbrand’s Companion Cube hardware required alterations to Valve’s proprietary hardware interfaces, which Valve considers a violation of its intellectual property rights. While software modifications are generally permissible under Valve’s terms of service, physical hardware changes require explicit approval.
• Lack of licensing compliance: Unlike software-based Companion Cube solutions, the hardware variant was never officially licensed by Valve. Dbrand’s refusal to seek proper authorization—despite multiple warnings—led to Valve’s final decision to discontinue support.
• Market and ecosystem shift: Steam Machines, the primary target audience for the Companion Cube, have seen declining sales in recent years. Valve’s focus has shifted toward cloud gaming (Steam Link, Steam Deck) and PC gaming, reducing the need for dedicated hardware accessories like the Companion Cube.

According to Valve’s official announcement, the discontinuation does not affect the software-based Companion Cube, which remains available for SteamOS and other compatible systems. Users with the hardware variant will no longer receive firmware updates or technical support from Valve.

How Did the Companion Cube Emerge—and Why Did It Matter?

The Steam Machine Companion Cube was introduced in 2017 as a modular expansion device for Valve’s Steam Machines, which were designed to compete with consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4. The hardware variant allowed users to add extra storage, USB ports, and other peripherals without modifying the base Steam Machine unit.

Dbrand, a company known for its hardware modding kits (such as the Steam Deck case), released its own version of the Companion Cube in 2018. While Dbrand’s software-based Companion Cube was well-received, the hardware version faced immediate backlash from Valve, which argued that the modifications violated its hardware design patents.

In a 2019 forum post, Valve’s legal team explicitly warned Dbrand against selling or distributing the hardware Companion Cube, stating that it “infringes on Valve’s intellectual property.” Despite these warnings, Dbrand continued to sell the device until Valve’s recent discontinuation notice.

What Happens to Existing Companion Cube Hardware Owners?

Owners of the hardware Companion Cube will still be able to use the device, but with critical limitations:

• No further updates: Valve will not release new firmware or driver updates for the hardware Companion Cube. This means compatibility issues with future SteamOS versions or new hardware may arise.
• Limited warranty support: Valve’s customer support will no longer assist with troubleshooting or repairs related to the Companion Cube. Users will need to rely on third-party repair services or Dbrand’s support (if available).
• Software alternatives remain: The software-based Companion Cube, which does not require hardware modifications, continues to receive updates and is fully supported by Valve. Users can still access its features via SteamOS or other compatible systems.

Dbrand has not yet issued a public statement regarding the discontinuation. However, the company’s official product page now redirects to a notice indicating that the hardware version is no longer available for purchase or support.

How Does This Compare to Valve’s Stance on Other Modifications?

Valve has a long history of enforcing strict intellectual property rights, particularly when it comes to hardware modifications. Unlike companies like Sony or Microsoft, which often allow third-party hardware accessories (e.g., Xbox controllers, PlayStation accessories), Valve has historically taken a harder line on unauthorized hardware changes.

Key examples include:

• Steam Controller bans: Valve has banned multiple third-party Steam Controller clones from its ecosystem, citing trademark and patent infringements.
• Steam Deck case restrictions: While Dbrand’s Steam Deck case is widely popular, Valve has not officially endorsed it and has warned against unauthorized modifications to the Steam Deck’s internal hardware.
• VR hardware policies: Valve’s VR division (HTC Vive) has also cracked down on unauthorized hardware modifications, particularly for safety reasons.

In contrast, Valve has been more permissive with software modifications, such as custom SteamOS skins or third-party launchers, as long as they do not violate Valve’s terms of service. The Companion Cube hardware dispute highlights the company’s distinction between software and physical hardware alterations.

What Does This Mean for Steam Machines and Valve’s Future?

The discontinuation of the Companion Cube hardware signals a broader shift in Valve’s priorities. While Steam Machines were once positioned as a major competitor to consoles, their market share has dwindled in recent years. Valve’s focus has increasingly shifted toward:

• Cloud gaming: Services like Steam Link and Steam Streaming have reduced the need for dedicated hardware.
• Steam Deck: Valve’s handheld gaming device has become the company’s primary hardware focus, overshadowing Steam Machines.
• PC gaming dominance: Valve has redirected resources toward improving Steam’s PC gaming ecosystem, including features like Proton (for Linux gaming) and DirectX 12 Ultimate support.

For Steam Machine users, the Companion Cube’s discontinuation is a reminder of the platform’s declining relevance. However, Valve has not ruled out future hardware initiatives. The company’s latest updates suggest that Steam Machines will continue to receive software updates, though no new hardware is expected.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Companion Cube Discontinuation